SAM Tech OFFERS Accredited Associate Degree Program
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Automotive Engine/Block & Cylinder Head Machining
The program objective of Automotive Engine/Block & Cylinder Head Machining is to qualify the student as an automotive block and cylinder head machinist. Although the actual machining process will be the emphasis of the program, a thorough education on theory of operation of the modem automotive engine will be presented along with the role of the cylinder head to the complete assembly. Performance modifications effect on power, longevity, and airflow characteristics will be highlighted in all courses of this program.
This program is intended for the mechanically inclined student with a desire to work in the automotive industry.
The program will include both classroom and hands-on lab instruction.
One semester credit hour for each fifteen (15) hours of classroom contact plus appropriate outside preparation or the equivalent: or one semester credit hour for each thirty (30) hours of laboratory work plus appropriate outside preparation: or one semester credit hour for not fewer than forty-five (45) hours of shop instruction (contact hours) or the equivalent.
Single subjects making up this program are not offered individually. See the Equipment List Addendum for a complete list of machines used in the Automotive Engine/Block & Cylinder Head Machining Associate Degree program.
The student will gain a general introduction to the industry work environment including customer relations, work orders, build sheets, and parts acquisition. The student will be introduced to the use of precision measurement and specialized, as well as, basic hand tools required will also be covered. Special emphasis is placed on both personal and shop safety due to the nature of potentially hazardous equipment. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the procedures of careful inspection and precise measurement technologies with the proper applications, formulas, and machinist math to provide a solid basis for successful production and high performance engine assembly procedures. This course includes an average of 15 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will explore the basic theory and concepts of internal combustion engine operation, then moves into more specific and complex areas including torque, airflow, volumetric efficiency, operating cycles, and horsepower. This course includes an average of 8.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the operation of an engine dynamometer to confirm
performance modifications and durability. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work
The student will learn the art of producing maximum capable horsepower including; torque, volumetric efficiency, and RPM through precise component assembly. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn and practice the key elements of balancing a rotating assembly to insure the crankshaft counterweights offset the rotating and recipitating forces created by pistons and rods. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 11.25 hours of outside the classroom work
The student learns the effects of camshaft selection, degreeing, and valve timing in relation to cylinder pressure, will be studied. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 25.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
Students will learn material selection, clearance, and proper assembly of the internal combustion engine bearings and modifications for high load/high RPM’s racing engines. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The students learn the understanding of the relationship between pistons and rings as used in the high-performance engine application. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 11.25 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the importance of fueling and igniting the engine cylinders for max reliable power utilizing power speed calculators and weather station data to produce consistent reliable power. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the individual components, their function, design, material position, and differences. This includes the relationship of the individual pieces to each other and the assembly as a whole. Production and performance variations will also be discussed. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
Ring filing to set gaps for specific engine power ranges and race applications. Ring fitting in actual finished cylinders is included. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
Students will learn to calculate four different cylinder wall measurements Average Roughness (Ra), Core Roughness (Rk), Reduced Pick Height (Rpk), and Reduced Valley Depth (Rvk). Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student learns the techniques of thorough examination and evaluation during disassembly to correctly diagnose potential problems, engine failure, and component replacement. Cleaning methods for both cast iron and aluminum are covered, including the impact of current environmental concerns. Additionally, crack detection methods and casting repairs are also covered. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student learns the set-up and operation procedures for the machining equipment. They will also learn the procedures used to complete the machining of block and component parts. The differences between standard and high-performance applications will be highlighted. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 26.25 hours of outside the classroom work.
The primary focus of this course is mastering the art of assembling precisely machined components into a complete operating engine, not only basic rebuild practices but blue printing specifications for different horsepower levels. The student will learn cam degreeing with consideration of application and referencing piston to valve clearance. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 22.5 hours
of outside the classroom work.
The student will experience setting up and running an engine dynamometer. This will include engine break-in, optimization of torque & horsepower while monitoring ignition timing and air fuel ratio. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student is prepared to enter the work force by learning the importance of personal appearance, conduct, attitude and mechanical aptitude. Job search techniques, the application process, effective resume composition, and interviewing skills are covered. Career goal setting, steps toward self-employment, and job placement assistance is covered. Outside-the-classroom work is required. This course includes an average of 3.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will gain a general introduction to the industry work environment including customer relations, work orders, build sheets, and parts acquisition. The student will be introduced to the use of precision measurement and specialized, as well as, basic hand tools required will also be covered. Special emphasis is placed on both personal and shop safety due to the nature of potentially hazardous equipment. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the procedures of careful inspection and precise measurement technologies, combined with the proper applications, formulas, and machinist math to provide a solid basis for successful production and high performance engine assembly procedures. This course includes an average of 15 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the basic theory and concepts of internal combustion engine operation. The course then moves into more specific and complex areas including torque, airflow, volumetric efficiency, operating cycles, and horsepower. This course includes an average of 8.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the how and why of the many components of the cylinder head assembly and their relationship to each other. The function and various material compositions of cylinder head castings and components will also be covered. Standard and high performance differences will be discussed. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn the proper procedure of head disassembly and careful inspection to determine any causes of failure, repairs needed, and component replacement. Cleaning methods, crack detection, repair, and associated environmental issues, for both aluminum and iron heads will also be discussed. This course includes an average of 15 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student learns the set-up and operation procedures of machining equipment. The student will also learn the procedures used to complete the machining of cylinder heads and component parts. A discussion of high performance and production differences will complete this section. This course includes an average of 15 hours of outside the classroom work.
Actual hands-on cylinder head and component machining will be accomplished by each student as they become proficient with all machining operations. Machined components will be checked closely for accuracy. These pieces will become part of each student’s course project. This course includes an average of 48.75 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student is exposed to the art of creating maximum efficiency and horsepower through precision component assembly relationships. Combustion chamber sizing and compression ratios will be discussed. The student will also study cylinder head performance secrets. This course includes an average of 11.25 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will learn correct assembly procedures of precisely machined components into a complete cylinder head. Evaluation and testing of complete assemblies will reveal the relationship of changes to performance. This course includes an average of 22.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student will explore flow characteristics of various head designs and the resultant effects of change. Proper techniques of porting, when it should be used, and actual hands-on experience will illustrate methods and levels of airflow improvement. This course includes an average of 26.25 hours of outside the classroom work.
The student is prepared to enter the job market by learning the importance of personal appearance, conduct, and attitude, in addition to mechanical aptitude. Subjects covered include job search, application process, effective resume composition, and interviews with potential employers. Career goal setting, including steps toward self-employment, along with job placement assistance are also covered. This course includes an average of 7.5 hours of outside the classroom work.
Students develop an understanding of the writing process, learn how to analyze readings, and write for personal and professional application. Academic writing is emphasized including proper use of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. This course includes an average of 90 hours of outside the classroom work.
This course introduces basic communication. Students learn how to analyze verbal and nonverbal cues, resolve conflicts, and execute effective business and interpersonal communication. Students demonstrate effective communication skills through written correspondence and oral presentations. Current writings on the subject broaden students’ exposure to communication. This course includes an average of 90 hours of outside the classroom work.
This course explores sociological processes that underlie everyday life. Topics include globalization, cultural diversity, family, poverty, critical thinking, new technologies, and the growing influence of mass media. This course includes an average of 90 hours of outside the classroom work.
This course is an introduction to algebra. Students learn how to solve problems using signed numbers, polynomials, algebraic expressions, factoring, exponents, rational and radical expressions, linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, and graphs. This course includes an average of 90 hours of outside the classroom work.
Students learn the basic principles of motion, matter, heat, sound, electricity, light, and modern physics. It includes appropriate laboratories. This course includes an average of 90 hours of outside the classroom work.
